Russian Satellite 'Express-AT1' Fails, Impacting Propaganda Broadcasts

What Happened

On March 11, 2026, the Center for Countering Disinformation under Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council announced the permanent failure of the 'Express-AT1' satellite. The satellite stopped functioning on March 4, and subsequent repair efforts were unsuccessful.

This failure disrupts key Russian TV operators, including Tricolor, NTV-Plus, and 'Russkiy Mir'. These outlets rely on the satellite for broadcasting in Russian-controlled regions. The satellite was initially expected to serve until at least 2030.

Key Details

The loss of 'Express-AT1' exposes weaknesses in Russia's technological infrastructure, worsened by Western sanctions. Analysts note that these sanctions limit Russia's capacity to maintain complex media systems.

Military spending has taken precedence over investments in vital infrastructure. While substantial resources funnel into military operations in Ukraine, the technologies crucial for propaganda are falling into disrepair.

Background

The Center for Countering Disinformation reported that out of 40 planned space launches in 2024, Russia only completed 17, revealing a significant decline in its technological capabilities. Now, operators reliant on 'Express-AT1' for broadcasting are facing operational setbacks.

The 'Russkiy Mir' channel, tailored for propaganda in occupied areas, has paused operations, further disconnecting these regions from Moscow's narratives. This scenario exemplifies a broader trend of declining state resources amid ongoing conflict.

The failure of the 'Express-AT1' satellite not only disrupts Russia’s propaganda channels but also highlights systemic issues within its space program. The consistent inability to complete planned space missions underscores the fragility of Russia's technological aspirations and its increasing isolation in space exploration, particularly following the onset of the war in Ukraine.